We know; you probably went to Mardi Gras in college and many of you are grateful there was no social media back then. Because if there’s any place where what happens there should stay there, it’s New Orleans. But since your first visit to the Big Easy, a lot has changed. (Not just you, either). Especially in recent years, where there are hotels that are more than just post-revelry crash pads. New Orleans is as cultural as it gets in the good ole’ USA. So this is where to stay in New Orleans, whether you’re headed there for Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, or just a weekend away this winter.
The Hotel: One11
Overview
One11 is a new hotel that is set right in the historic French Quarter. Originally, the building was a Sugar Mill, but has since been converted into a modern boutique hotel. This is where to stay in New Orleans, if you want a view in the French Quarter. The One11 has unparalleled views of both the French Quarter and the Mississippi River. In other words, you get both the action of Bourbon Street, but also the tranquility of a more low-key New Orleans experience.
One11 has a central courtyard that is the heart of the hotel, with a pool and firepit. It naturally invites guests to congregate over pre and post-dinner drinks. There is also a rooftop terrace on the eighth floor with the views that make this the place to stay in the French Quarter. For those looking to get a workout in, guests get complimentary access to a fitness center across the street from the hotel.
Rooms
One11 refers to its suites as “sweets”, in a tongue and cheek reference to the origins of the building as a sugar factory. Both the rooms and “sweets” feature exposed brick, natural light, and an emphasis on simplicity. This is not your seedy French quarter accommodation. Beds have top of the line luxury linens, a zen color palate and modern baths, with large walk in showers. In addition, the “sweets” come with a private terrace to enjoy the view.
Dining
The Batture Bistro + Bar is the in-house restaurant of the One11. The gold and green bar compliments the 19th century cypress beams that tell a story of the building’s history. They use fresh ingredients to present an array of dishes that are both well-known French classics and creole specialties.
The Hotel: The Chloe
Overview
The Chloe is a fourteen room boutique hotel set in a renovated 19th century Uptown mansion. They are known for their Southern hospitality and a charm that welcomes visitors to the liveliness of New Orleans. The Chloe has an outdoor pool, where you can spend the day on a lounger and cooling off from the heat. There’s a retro feel to the whole scene, with pink loungers and wrought iron. Out front, the patio is surrounded by greenery with a wooden deck and rocking chairs for relaxing and watching the sunset.
Rooms
Each of the fourteen rooms come with their own unique style, vintage furniture, and local art. They also come with their own sound system and vinyl record player with a carefully curated selection of records. Some rooms even feature an armoire that opens into the large and sunny bathroom.
Dining
The hotel’s restaurant serves dishes that bring a modern twist on classic creole cuisine. In addition, there are two options of bars. The Lobby Bar features wooden accents, rattan barstools, and a warm interior that evokes a richness in the decor. The Pool Bar offers light bites and tropical drinks.
The Hotel: The Four Seasons
Overview
You know that a city is as a luxury destination when the The Four Seasons arrives. The Four Seasons landmark tower is situated within downtown New Orleans, is just steps away from the Mississippi River. This is a business hotel by virtue of its location, but within reach of the fun of Bourbon Street. Besides their award winning service, this Four Seasons features grand scale amenities, including an observation deck on the 34th floor with the best views in town.
Additionally, the seventy-five foot long crescent pool has views of the city. The full-service spa features French beauty treatments combined with modern technology to relax and rejuvenate. Additionally, there is a fitness center, rooftop deck, and garden. Specialized private activities can also be arranged such as watching local jazz performances and streetcar tours of the city.
Rooms
The rooms are split between river-view and city-view categories. These feature beds with luxury linens, a living room area for lounging, and a marble bathroom.
Dining
This Four Seasons has two main restaurants. Miss River is a grand dining experience that presents elevated New Orleans staples. The second restaurant, Chemin á la Mer, has panoramic views of the city and serves Louisiana fare prepared in a French technique. Additionally the Chandelier Bar has glamorous cocktails served alongside smaller bites and caviar.
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